Record number of Scottish students gain university entry

A record number of Scottish students have secured a place at university, with university entries from the most deprived areas also at the highest ever level, according to UCAS statistics published on A-level results day.

Compared to this stage last year, the number of Scottish applicants accepted to Scottish institutions increased by four per cent from 29,120 to 30,400 and acceptances from the 20 per cent most deprived areas in Scotland (SIMD 20) increased by 5 per cent from 4,060 to 4,280 individuals.

Minister for Further, Higher Education and Science, Shirley-Anne Somerville, said: “Firstly, I want to congratulate all students who have received results recently and secured a place at one of the many great universities in our country.

“Scotland has a world class higher education system and one that will always be based on the principles of being free, fair and funded. The latest UCAS figures show a really positive picture for Scotland’s students, with a record number gaining entry to university.

“It is also extremely heartening to see record levels of individuals from more deprived areas in Scotland gaining access to university. This is really positive news and this Scottish Government will continue to do all that we can to widen access and ensure all of our young people get an equal chance to go to university.”